Amsterdam has expanded its ban on nuisance panhandling to 17 more areas starting early this month.
Enforcement now covers streets and districts including the Westerstraat, Rozengracht, Javastraat, Delflandpleinbuurt, Staatsliedenbuurt, and Spaarndammerbuurt.
The rules also apply at Osdorpplein, Plein ’40-’45, the Bos en Lommerweg, Hoofddorpplein, the Zuidas, Buikslotermeerplein, Oostpoort, and along Weesperstraat-Sarphatistraat.
Shopping centers in Holendrecht, Gein, and Reigersbos fall under the expanded ban as well.
What counts as nuisance
Mayor Femke Halsema pointed to police registrations and enforcement figures showing begging alongside other problems such as alcohol and drug use and dealing in these spots.
The City of Amsterdam defines nuisance panhandling as behavior that turns aggressive when someone refuses to give money.
Grabbing hold of people or following them is also prohibited under the rules.
Anyone caught can face a fine of €110.
Other steps already taken
Officials say camera surveillance and extra police and enforcement staff were already in place to curb the issues.
They view the ban as needed to keep the remaining nuisance at a manageable level for officers on the ground.
People who are homeless and causing ongoing problems will first be offered help, with the aim of stopping further decline.
Enforcement follows only when there is structural nuisance or a clear disturbance of public order.
Earlier zones and timeline
A similar ban has been in force since February in places such as the Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal, the Oosterparkbuurt, and the Sarphatiparkbuurt.
The current measure runs until 1 July 2027.
At that point the city will review whether the restrictions are still required.
